A Marine recruit collapsed during a training exercise at Camp Pendleton in Southern California, military officials confirmed.
Private First Class Javier Pong, 18, “became unconscious and unresponsive while conducting scheduled training” at the installation outside San Diego, AP reported.
Pong was rushed to Camp Pendleton’s Naval Hospital, where he later died.
A cause of death has not been disclosed.
The commanding general of Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego is pledging an investigation into the recruit’s death.
“We are greatly saddened by the untimely passing of Pfc. Javier Pong as he pursued his journey to become a United States Marine,” Brig. Gen. Jason Morris said of the training casualty, according to AP.
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“We are committed to honoring his memory, supporting those with whom he served, and investigating the cause of his death to ensure we can safely transform civilians into Marines and retain the trust of the American people.”
Capt. Joshua Collins indicated that Pong’s basic training company was in the eighth week of the training program – as per The LA Times.
“Javier was a faithful Christian who attended church every Sunday and Wednesday and was involved in church activities,” the 18-year-old’s obituary read.
Deaths in Marine Corps recruit training are not uncommon.
According to Military.com, a recruit died during the culminating “Crucible” training exercise last year at MCRD Parris Island.
Brig. Gen. Jason Morris, if only we could believe you.
Does anyone believe they will tell us if it was myocarditis?
Some people have congenital defects that, unfortunately, are not discovered until an autopsy. I call attention to Jim Fixx, an icon in the running world. He had a massive heart deformation. His conditioning had covered it up, but, finally one half of his heart could not longer compensate for the weak half.
Semper fi, Private Pong.
You can now guard the streets of Heaven.
why would heaven need guarding?
do you think having to guard something is fun or a reward?
They were supposed to protect this fine young warrior
There are no Pfc’s in boot camp!!
Was he